But, ultimately, Evans said Blizzard's change of heart was the right decision.

"We should all learn to listen to our communities."

Ryder described the "process", as he called it: "We were able to take that feedback, reconsider, consider all the factors, of which feedback was one. Ultimately we decided we would not go in that direction for the time being, and see if there were other ways we could address the objective we had, which was to improve the forums generally.

"So, all in all, the process worked. We put the word out. We got the feedback. We reconsidered. We made a change. We appreciate the fact that we have such passionate fans."

Ryder said the experience has, in the end, shown Blizzard in a positive light.

"It reinforces the notion that we're privileged to have those players that care and give us feedback."